20 Jan 2010

Internet group warns 'all users are vulnerable'

6:33 pm on 20 January 2010

An Internet users group says a recent cyber attack on the search engine Google should serve as a warning for all users to ensure they have good security software.

Hackers reportedly used a crack in Microsoft's Internet Explorer to wage an attack on Google in China.

The Australian government is the latest to warn people to use a different browser, install temporary fixes and update security software regularly.

The Internet Service Providers Association says this country's government should also act. Its president, Jamie Cairns, says the incident shows all users are vulnerable.

Mr Cairns says it is not feasible to simply stop using the Internet Explorer browser. He says businesses, in particular, need to ensure they have updated security software.